Spring 1999

In this issue

1. Greetings!
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Murphy celebrates completing her Master's degree, expresses despair over the lack of women on bluegrass radio charts, and briefly introduces the contents of the issue.
2. Is There a Link Between Bluegrass Musicianship and Sexuality?
   by Thomas A. Adler This essay by Tom Adler argues that bluegrass's historical male dominance is rooted in instrumental traditions, performance aesthetics of assertiveness, and the socio-sexual function of music as male competition and courtship display.
3. BETTY FISHER
   FROM BANDLEADER TO SIDE MUSICIAN by Murphy Hicks Henry and Betty Fisher The conclusion of the Betty Fisher interview detailing the challenges of maintaining her band, her decision to quit performing, her attempt to be a side musician, and her reflections on ageism and the sacrifices of leadership.
4. Women on Top
   by Murphy Hicks Henry A brief review of Women on Top, which chronicles the rise of female artists in pop and country music, prompting a reflection on the comparative lack of similar progress in bluegrass.

Photos

• Benny Cain, Vallie Cain, page 2. Photo: courtesy of Andrew Acosta Uncredited.
• Donna Stoneman, Oscar James “Jimmy” Stoneman, Peggy Peterson Stoneman, Scotty Stoneman, page 3. Photographer unknown.
• Janis Lewis, Miggie Lewis, Polly Lewis, page 4. Photographer unknown.
• Betty Fisher, page 11. Photographer unknown.